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Bill

Bill

HB 927

RELATING TO FREESTANDING BIRTHING FACILITIES.

2026 Regular Session Introduced by Linda Ichiyama

HB 927 creates licensing and operational standards for Hawaii's independent birthing centers to regulate midwifery-led care for low-risk pregnancies.

Carried over to 2026 Regular Session.
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Bill Summary · HB 927

Legislative bill overview

HB 927 establishes regulatory requirements for freestanding birthing facilities in Hawaii—these are birth centers that operate independently outside of hospitals. The bill creates licensure standards, operational requirements, and oversight mechanisms for these facilities to ensure patient safety and quality care standards.

Why is this important

Freestanding birthing facilities serve an important role in maternal healthcare by offering an alternative to hospital births for low-risk pregnancies, potentially increasing access to midwifery-led care and reducing unnecessary medical interventions. The regulatory framework determines whether these facilities can legally operate, what safety protocols they must follow, and ultimately whether Hawaii residents have this birthing option available.

Potential points of contention

  • Scope of practice and oversight: Disagreement over which healthcare providers can manage births at these facilities (midwives, nurses, physicians) and what level of state oversight is appropriate versus professional self-regulation
  • Safety and transfer protocols: Debate over required safety standards, emergency backup agreements with hospitals, and whether current standards adequately protect both mother and infant during complications
  • Access versus cost considerations: Questions about whether regulation will expand birthing options for underserved populations or create barriers through licensure costs and requirements that primarily benefit wealthier communities

Compiled from official sources — confirm details with the bill’s official record.

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